Mental illness and cultural beliefs in a Southern Italian immigrant family. A case report

Abstract

Culture has a profound effect upon the manifestation of mental disorders. Unusual cultural beliefs are usually inadequate explanations for symptoms, no matter how bizarre the belief may be. Other parameters - genetic, family interaction, role expectation and so on - must be considered. Cultural beliefs can mask anxiety laden intrapsychic dysfunction as well as maladaptive family behavioural patterns. Fulfilment of role expectation is a significant determinant of psychological functioning. Persistent awareness of psychopathology, together with a thorough familiarity with cultural aspects of an individual's background, is of utmost diagnostic importance. The absence of the latter leads to the danger of labeling and misunderstanding 'symptoms'; the absence of the former can lead to the situation described in this case report. Therapeutic endeavours must be multivariant, and cultural consideration is but one important aspect.